This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. The turkey gives it a lean protein boost, while the sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and richness. The beans provide a hearty texture, and the combination of spices makes each spoonful perfectly satisfying.
The chili can be served with a variety of toppings, from fresh cilantro to a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. It’s an easy and versatile dish that can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies and protein, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, lime wedges
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
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Add the onion and garlic, and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
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Add the diced sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chili has thickened.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 325 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Turkey and Sweet Potatoes Make the Perfect Pair
When you think of chili, ground beef or pork may come to mind. However, turkey is an excellent alternative for those looking for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Ground turkey is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthier choice compared to traditional ground meats. It absorbs the spices and seasonings beautifully, creating a rich and savory base for the chili.
Sweet potatoes, on the other hand, are a nutrient-packed vegetable that add a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish. They are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals like potassium and vitamin A. Their natural sweetness balances the spiciness of the chili, giving it a well-rounded flavor profile. The combination of turkey and sweet potatoes in this chili provides a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it both delicious and satisfying.
The Health Benefits of Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is not only comforting and flavorful, but it’s also packed with health benefits. Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. It is also a great source of B-vitamins, including niacin and vitamin B6, which help with energy production and support brain function. By using ground turkey instead of higher-fat meats like beef or pork, you reduce the overall fat content in the dish, making it a healthier option.
Sweet potatoes are also loaded with health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, which help protect your body from harmful free radicals and reduce inflammation. They are also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. Additionally, sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins like vitamin A and C, which are important for immune function and skin health.
The beans in this chili, whether kidney beans, black beans, or a combination of both, offer additional fiber and protein, making the dish even more filling and nutritious. Beans are also known to support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and stabilizing blood sugar levels. The spices used in this recipe, including chili powder, cumin, and paprika, not only enhance the flavor but also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can benefit your overall health.
Making the Perfect Chili: Tips and Tricks
While the recipe for Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is straightforward, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you make the perfect batch every time. Here are some things to keep in mind when making this delicious dish:
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Use Lean Ground Turkey: To keep the chili lean and healthy, make sure to use lean ground turkey (preferably 93% lean or higher). If you use higher-fat turkey, you may need to drain excess fat during cooking, which could affect the texture of the dish.
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Cut Sweet Potatoes Evenly: When dicing the sweet potatoes, try to cut them into uniform pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and soften at the same rate. Smaller pieces will cook faster and absorb more of the chili’s flavors.
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Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your chili spicier, feel free to add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with other spices like smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to customize the heat to your liking.
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Add Toppings for Extra Flavor: While the chili is delicious on its own, you can elevate the dish with a variety of toppings. Some popular choices include sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, lime wedges, and diced avocado. These toppings add creaminess, freshness, and a bit of zest to the chili.
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Make It Ahead: Chili is a dish that tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep or a busy weeknight.
How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas for serving this hearty meal:
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With a Side of Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic pairing with chili, and its slightly sweet flavor complements the spiciness of the dish. Serve the chili with a warm slice of cornbread for the perfect comfort food combination.
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Over Rice or Quinoa: If you want to make the dish more filling, serve the chili over a bed of rice or quinoa. The grains will absorb the flavors of the chili and add a satisfying base.
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As a Chili Bowl: For a more casual presentation, serve the chili in bowls with your choice of toppings. This makes for an easy and enjoyable meal that everyone can customize to their liking.
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With a Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chili and provide some fresh crunch. Consider adding ingredients like avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onions for extra flavor.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the best things about Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is that it’s perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch on Sunday, and you’ll have lunch or dinner ready to go for the entire week. Chili tends to get even more flavorful as it sits, so leftovers are always a treat. You can store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals or keep it in a large airtight container in the fridge.
If you’re looking to freeze the chili, simply let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply defrost it in the fridge overnight or heat it up on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a little extra chicken broth while reheating will help restore its creamy texture.
Conclusion
Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is a hearty, healthy, and delicious dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. It’s the perfect blend of lean protein, fiber, and spices, offering a comforting and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you make it for a cozy dinner at home, a family gathering, or for meal prep throughout the week, this chili will become a favorite in your recipe collection. With its customizable ingredients and flavors, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy and make their own.
The addition of turkey and sweet potatoes makes this chili a lighter alternative to traditional chili recipes, without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making it a nutritious option for anyone looking to eat healthier. Whether served on its own or with your favorite sides, Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.